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Chasing away the blues.

The third Monday is January – often dubbed “Blue Monday” – is reputedly the most depressing day of the year, as the glow of Christmas holidays finally recedes, the weather worsens and New Year’s resolutions crumble and fail.

But Bath & District Samaritans are calling on people to defy the doom-mongers by making this year’s gloomy date, Monday 16th January, into a more positive “Brew Monday”, using the occasion as an excuse to brew up a simple cuppa and share a chat with a friend, colleague, neighbour or family member.

Samaritans volunteers will be on hand at many railway stations across the country, including Bath Spa, on Monday morning (January 16th), brewing up a treat for commuters by handing out specially produced Samaritans tea bags to encourage them to brew up and a chat.

Bath Spa rail station

It’s being done with support from Network Rail and the wider rail industry, which helps Samaritans raise awareness of the charity’s services, and recruit volunteers.

David Ryder, Director of Bath & District Samaritans said: “Difficult feelings don’t really work to a calendar, and external circumstances are only one part of what can makes life sometimes feel overwhelming.

“But January probably isn’t the jolliest month, so making time for a friendly chat will help everyone, and we know can make a real difference to people with troubles, helping turn them away from darker thoughts. Everyone can help – it can be as simple as making a cup of tea.”

The Samaritans stand and tea-bags will be in place in the main ticket hall at Bath Spa station from 8.00am-10.00am.